Almost all chain lubes are applied the same way -- apply, soak in, wipe off excess -- and Chain-L is no exception. Because of its unique properties, it requires some extra attention to detail and we suggest that you follow theseinstructions, keeping in mind that only the oil inside counts and any excess is counter-productive.

New chains should be oiled off the bike by stretching out on newspaper with the rollers up. Oil generously This will do a better job of lubricating and save time on cleanup of the cassette and chainrings. Install and skip to Step 4.

Used chains should first be cleaned as well as possible to avoid wicking dirt in. If the chain has a reusable master link, consider cleaning and oiling it off the bike.

On the bike, oil chain in high gear (outer ring and smallest cog) or using a chainkeeper. Chain-L soaks in very slowly, so give it 10 minutes or so. While turning the cranks, wipe excess oil off the chain and derailleur pulleys, leaving only the thinnest film possible. Any excess will only make it messier than it needs to be.

Turn the cranks and look carefully for fans of excess oil spinning off the pulleys. There shouldn’t be any. If there are, rewipe the chain and pulleys and repeat until no oil spins off.

Change gears and wipe off the outer chainring. Then run the bike through the gears to spread a bit of the oil throughout the cassette.

6. Don’t forget to wipe off any oil that got onto the derailleur, chainstay, etc.

By now, the chain should have a thin, sticky film of oil on its surface. Leave this on for rust protection. It will attract dust on the first few rides but the good news is, after the stickiness is blotted up, the chain won’t get any dirtier.If you wish, you may “dry clean” the chain from time to time by wiping with a paper towel, but don’t add oil unless the chain “asks” for it.